Erdogan: Crimea must be returned to Ukraine

(Patria) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed Turkey's firm support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Emphasizing continued support for the rights of Crimean Tatars, the Turkish leader remained firm in his stance that Crimea must be returned to Ukraine.

- Our support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence is unwavering. The return of Crimea to Ukraine is a requirement of international law - Erdogan stated in a video message at the Fourth Summit of the Crimea Platform leaders.

He stressed that the return of Crimea to Ukraine aligns with international legal standards, pointing to the enduring pain suffered by Crimean Tatars, whose suffering has lasted for eight decades.

Erdogan expressed his conviction in further actions to support the rights of Crimean Tatars, saying he believes additional steps will continue to be taken to strengthen the rights of Crimean Tatars in the coming period.

He thanked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa Abdulcemil Kirimoglu for their roles in organizing the summit, which marks the 80th anniversary of the deportation of Crimean Tatars.

He also stated that Turkey has never recognized the annexation of Crimea, which has further exacerbated the suffering of people in the region.

Speaking about the end of the war, Erdogan emphasizes that Turkey's sincere desire is for the war to end with a just and lasting peace based on Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence.

Finally, he expressed hope that the platform's efforts will contribute to international peace initiatives in the region and paid tribute to those who have passed away during the 80th anniversary of the persecution.